From 1986 to 1988, Smith worked at Ohio University as a graduate assistant and later served as an assistant coach. He worked at Edinboro University from 1989 to 1994, serving as an assistant coach, recruiting coordinator, and strength and conditioning coordinator.

Smith joined the Jaguars in 1994 as a college scout. He was promoted to director of college scouting in 2000, and then took on the role of Executive Director of College and Pro Personnel in January 2008. He became the first general manager in Jaguars history on January 12, 2009, after the resignation of James "Shack" Harris, who had been the team's Vice-President of Player Personnel.[1]

Smith was fired on December 31, 2012[2] following a 2–14 season which was the worst record in team history.